Ultrasound Transducer Disinfection: How to Properly Clean Ultrasound Probes

SUMMARY

Proper disinfection of ultrasound probes prevents infection and cross-contamination between patients. Following evidence-based protocols keeps patients safe—and your equipment compliant. For non-critical probes (intact skin), low/intermediate disinfection is possible. High-level disinfection required for semi-critical probes (mucous membranes). We recommend sterilization for critical/invasive use.

Ultrasound imaging is used across hospitals, clinics, and outpatient settings every day—and proper sanitation of ultrasound devices is crucial. Because probes make direct contact with the body, they can easily become a vehicle for pathogen transmission without proper cleaning.

From routine abdominal scans to transvaginal or biopsy-guided procedures, each type of patient contact demands the right disinfection process. Knowing the difference is key to safe care.

Below, we break down how to properly clean ultrasound probe transducers, along with practical workflows that teams can implement right away.

Why is Disinfecting Ultrasound Probes Critical?

After an ultrasound probe is used on a patient, it will be left with bioburden—this is remaining debris, such as body fluids and bacteria. Biofilm formation might then occur. This refers to communities of microorganisms that can develop and harden on the probe.

When organic material like gel, blood, or tissue remains on a probe, developing biofilm, disinfectants may not work effectively. That means bacteria, fungi, and viruses can remain on the surface even when the device looks clean. 

Over time, improper cleaning can lead to:

• Infection risk for the next patient

• Surface damage to the probe

• Liability for the facility

This risk intensifies in semi-critical and critical procedures where the probe meets mucous membranes or is involved in percutaneous access. Situations like OB/GYN imaging, emergency care, or biopsies require strict infection-control workflows to protect vulnerable populations.

Disinfection Levels Based on Use Case

Not every probe requires the same level of disinfection. The correct cleaning workflow depends on where the probe is used and what tissue it contacts. The Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI)’s recommendations are as follows: 

1. Non-critical — contact with intact skin

General imaging (abdominal, vascular, MSK) falls in this category. These procedures carry lower infection risk, but cleaning and low/intermediate disinfection is still required after each use. Skipping steps, even for quick scans, can allow pathogens to build up over time.

2. Semi-critical — contact with mucous membranes

Transvaginal, transrectal, and transesophageal probes meet mucosal surfaces where infection risk is higher. High-level disinfection (HLD) is mandatory for these exams, per ECRI’s evidence-based recommendations.

This is also where hydrogen peroxide-based systems, glutaraldehyde, or OPA solutions commonly come into play.

3. Critical — invasive/percutaneous use

When a probe guides a needle or enters sterile fields, sterilization is preferred whenever possible. If a specific model cannot be sterilized, the minimum requirement becomes high-level disinfection paired with sterile sheaths.

The exact disinfectant approach required will depend on your manufacturer’s recommendations. Manufacturers’ IFUs always take priority. When compatibility is unclear, default to evidence-based standards and reach out to your supplier.

How do I Clean Ultrasound Probes?

A good disinfection routine is structured, consistent, and documented.

While specifics vary by manufacturer, a standard workflow looks like this, according to the American Institute for Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM).

1. Disassemble and remove cover. Note that the FDA states a probe cover does not replace the need for proper cleaning!

2. Pre-clean immediately after use: Gels and contaminants are easier to remove before they dry. A quick wipe with low-level disinfectant prevents residue from hardening. 

3. Clean with approved detergents: Apply the recommended cleaning solution (noted in your manufacturer’s IFU) to remove visible soil.

4. Rinse and visually inspect: If residue remains, repeat cleaning. After all, disinfection is only effective on a clean surface.

5. Dry and store properly: Moisture can harbor microbes. Probes should be air-dried or towel-dried and stored in clean, ventilated cabinets rather than sealed containers.

What are Best Practices to Maintain Infection Prevention?

Even the correct disinfectant will fail without protocol discipline.

Strong safety programs typically include:

• Staff training and annual competency checks

• Logged & trackable HLD/sterilization cycles

• Routine inspection for probe cracks or damaged sheaths

• Using sterile covers for invasive imaging

• Reference-based protocols from ECRI, CDC, AAMI

Remember: Consistent documentation protects both your patients and your facility during audits.

Bottom Line

Proper ultrasound transducer disinfection is more than a cleaning routine. It’s a critical step in infection prevention and device longevity. With the right workflow, products, and compliance strategy, healthcare teams can confidently deliver safe, high-quality imaging care.

FAQs

How often should ultrasound probes be disinfected?

After every patient encounter, regardless of exam type.

Do probe covers replace high-level disinfection?

No. Covers reduce contamination but do not eliminate the need for HLD or sterilization.

Is hydrogen peroxide safe for probes?

Yes. hydrogen peroxide systems are a widely used method for HLD, but probe compatibility must be verified.

If one probe is used for internal and external scans, what should be followed?

Always use the highest-risk requirement — meaning HLD.

What happens if cleaning is skipped before disinfecting?

Residual soil reduces disinfectant effectiveness, increasing infection risk.

Citations

ECRI Institute. Cleaning and disinfecting diagnostic ultrasound transducers: our recommendations. Health Devices 2018 Jul 25.

American Institute for Ultrasound in Medicine. Guidelines for cleaning and preparing external- and internal-use ultrasound transducers and equipment between patients as well as safe handling and use of ultrasound coupling gel, 2025 revision. 2025 Jul 2.

Choytong Medical

High-quality and reliable ultrasound probe equipment to ensure the safety and reliability in patient care

Shop